Volunteer Name: Lori & Kelsey Risbrudt
Project Location: Cartagena Colombia
Volunteered At: Child/Youth Center
Volunteer in Colombia
What was your favorite memory of this trip?
Living with the Henriquez's, working at Institution. Meeting Libary and Karen
What was the most difficult thing you experienced?
Hmmmm...can't think of anything. I wanted to take pictures of our walk to work, but was told not a good idea.
What was the one thing you wished you were better prepared for?
not sure, felt prepared
Any tips for future volunteers*…/ (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, sightseeing etc)
Don't have an agenda. Come open minded. Pack minimally, get a map before traveling.
How would you describe/rate your experience working with the ABV staff in the USA?
Muy bien!!! awesome personalities, very accommodating, Immediate feedback
How was the local ABV Director and the support provided in-country?
Couldn't have been better
Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):
I enjoyed the experience with ABV. The language barrier could be an issue, but the staff is helpful, encouraging, and supportive. They are flexible and very available. My daughter and I were privileged to work with the staff at the Institution and fell in love with the children as well as the workers. Their way of running a daycare is different than America, but it was a great experience. Colombia is a beautiful country filled with beautiful people and a beautiful language. Though we walked everyday in a neighborhood that could "feel" intimidating due to the language, culture, and poverty, the staff helped us be confident and safe. We never felt afraid and we loved living in the neighborhood, meeting the friends of the family, and being part of their daily life.
Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
sure.
